When Following Jesus Costs You Something

Sunday Rewind is a 5-day Devotional based on the weekly sermon at Resonate Community Church

November 2nd Sermon, Day 1

Nobody likes being rejected. It's one of those universal human experiences that cuts deep, whether it's being passed over for a promotion, excluded from a social circle, or criticized for our beliefs. Yet Jesus taught something that completely flips our natural understanding: those who face persecution for righteousness are actually blessed.

This isn't about being difficult or unnecessarily confrontational. It's about the inevitable tension that arises when we live with integrity in a world that often operates by different values. When we show compassion to those society overlooks, when we refuse to compromise our convictions for convenience, or when we speak truth in love, we shouldn't be surprised if we face pushback.

The reality is that following Jesus authentically will sometimes cost us something. It might be a relationship that becomes strained when we won't participate in gossip. It could be missing out on opportunities because we won't cut ethical corners. Perhaps it's facing criticism for extending grace to someone others think doesn't deserve it.

But here's what Jesus wants us to understand: this opposition isn't a sign that something's wrong with our faith. It's actually confirmation that we might be getting something right. When we experience rejection for living like Jesus, we're walking the same path He walked. We're being counted worthy to share in His experience. The world rejected Jesus, and it will also reject those who truly follow Him. This isn't a flaw in the system – it's how the system works. Light exposes darkness, and darkness doesn't always appreciate being exposed.

Bible Verse

"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first." - John 15:18

Reflection Question

Can you think of a time when living out your faith created tension or cost you something? How did that experience shape your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus?

Quote The world rejected Jesus and so it'll also reject everyone who truly follows him.

Prayer

Lord, help me to see opposition not as a sign of failure, but as confirmation that I'm walking in Your footsteps. Give me courage to live with integrity even when it's costly, knowing that You understand rejection better than anyone. Amen.